For over twenty-five years, Oregon Writers Colony has offered workshops, retreats, conferences, author readings and comraderie to Northwest writers. Colonyhouse, a log house in Rockaway Beach, Oregon, provides OWC-member writers, writing groups and teachers a supportive learning and writing environment. For more information, visit Oregon Writers Colony web site by clicking here.

However, the Colonyhouse exterior and interior are accessible only by long, high-rise staircases. Workshops, meetings and other activities are not accessible to visitors and members with physical difficulties.

Our goal is to make Colonyhouse accessible to all. With sufficient funds we will add an annex for an interior elevator, accessible rooms, and bring the Colonyhouse up to current ADA codes. View architectural drawings (pdf)

Projected costs are $600,000. Members have already generously donated time and money during Phase 1, and we have met our goal of $25,000 to begin the final architecutral plans. Grant writing begins soon, but continued matching dollars will be needed to encourage capital funding from private foundations. The project is in Phase 2, which involves the architect drawing up the final blueprints and applying for permits, as well as meeting with the engineer to set up tests necessary for construction planning. The goal for the final construction date is 2012.

CAMPAIGN GOALS

• To make Colonyhouse accessible to all visitors and writers
• To add an interior elevator for total accessibility
• To create additional space for classrooms and accommodations
• To upgrade the kitchen and bathroom to ADA standards
• To build additional accessible outdoor facilities

HELP REALIZE THE DREAM